Key Takeaways
- The Libertas Americana medal, to be tossed at the Super Bowl, holds immense historical significance.
- Commissioned by Benjamin Franklin, the medal celebrates America's victory in the Revolutionary War.
- The medal's depiction of Liberty became a symbol of American ideals and identity.
The Historical Significance of the Libertas Americana Medal
As the National Football League prepares to toss the Libertas Americana medal at this Sunday's Super Bowl, a piece of American history will take center stage. This small silver medal, originally created in 1782–1783 to commemorate America's victory in the Revolutionary War, holds immense historical significance.
Benjamin Franklin's Vision
The brainchild of Benjamin Franklin, the Libertas Americana medal was commissioned while he served as an American diplomat in France. Franklin envisioned a medal that would honor the Continental Army's victories at Saratoga and Yorktown, as well as recognize the crucial support of the French in America's fight for independence.
The Iconic Image of Liberty
Designed by French artists Augustin Dupré and Esprit-Antoine Gibelin, the Libertas Americana features a powerful depiction of Liberty. This image of a confident young woman charging forward towards possibility and promise became the iconic representation of American liberty and ideals.
Shaping American Identity
Beyond its symbolic representation of liberty, the Libertas Americana played a crucial role in shaping America's identity as a nation governed by values rather than individuals. The image of Liberty on the medal became so significant that it was replicated on some of America's first federal coins, solidifying its place in American history.
As the Super Bowl audience watches the ceremonial toss of the Libertas Americana medal, they will not only witness a tradition of the game but also be reminded of the enduring legacy of America's fight for freedom and the ideals that continue to shape the nation today.